Iran's football federation president Mehdi Taj has confirmed that the national team is preparing for the World Cup but will not play its matches in the United States. This decision comes in light of ongoing political tensions between the US and Iran, particularly following an American-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. While Iran is among the first teams to qualify for the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, the location of its group stage matches has now come under scrutiny.

According to the current schedule, Iran is set to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G, all matches intended to take place in the United States. However, recent remarks from President Taj indicate that the Iranian Football Federation is in talks with FIFA to potentially relocate these matches to Mexico, distancing the team from appearing on American soil. As preparation ramps up, the Iranian team is currently training in Turkey and intends to play, but not in the US, a decision firmly rooted in broader geopolitical concerns.

Additionally, Iran is scheduled to play friendly matches against Nigeria and Costa Rica in Antalya later this month. The political climate, influenced by US statements, including those from President Donald Trump regarding security concerns, further complicates the situation, fueling Iran's decision to seek alternatives to playing in the United States during the prestigious tournament.